Carlisle High proposes stricter cell-phone rules: storage lockers, class-by-class expectations and progressive discipline

Carlisle High School administrators outlined a new, more restrictive approach to student personal electronic devices that would require students to store cell phones in classroom storage lockers when class begins, limit headphone use to teacher-authorized activities, and apply progressive discipline for repeated noncompliance.

Dr. Patty Buffington, speaking for high school administration, framed the change as an academic-focused policy designed “to create an environment more conducive to academics and learning.” She told the board the plan separates academic settings (classrooms, labs, gym during PE, library) from nonacademic ones (hallways, cafeteria, buses, before/after school) and asks students to place phones in a classroom locker after the bell. “Students will be responsible for placing their cell phones in a classroom…